Gainsborough: Kick start your career with an apprenticeship

WLDC markets officer Rebecca Jackson started her career with the council as an apprentice

West Lindsey District Council is leading the way in the recruitment of apprentices, with a total of nine currently on the books.

Apprenticeships give people the chance to work for a real employer, earn a real salary and gain a real qualification while gaining valuable workplace skills and experience.

As well as giving young people that vital first step on a career path, there are also great benefits for employers.

Hiring apprentices helps businesses to grow their own talent by developing a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. And employers often find young people can provide a fresh perspective.

There is also the added benefit of government incentives available to help employers cover training costs for apprentices aged between 18 and 24-years-old.

Coun Malcolm Parish, chair of the council’s prosperous communities committee and a former apprentice himself, said: “Apprenticeships are a great way for the council to support local young people.”

“By giving them practical work experience and support towards gaining a qualification this will open up more opportunities for them in the future.”

The council’s markets officer Rebecca Jackson started her career with the council as an apprentice.

She said: “I started at West Lindsey as a business administration apprentice, and am now employed as the market’s officer.”

“The apprenticeship was a great experience and a fantastic opportunity to get my career started. I don’t think I would have the job I have now without having done it. I would encourage anyone who wants to get into work to consider an apprenticeship.”

Anyone over the age of 16 and in full time education can apply for an apprenticeship. To find out more visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.